San Diego State University: Out of state tuition?

Hello! Coming from the East Coast and intrigued by San Diego State University. Problem is, I've heard the out of state tuition could be a deal breaker. Do any out-of-state students have advice on the reality of the costs? Thanks!

Hello! You're correct that out-of-state tuition at San Diego State University (SDSU) can be quite a bit higher than in-state tuition. At SDSU, the 2024-2025 tuition for out-of-state undergraduates is about $21,328 per year, not including room, board, or other associated fees.

When you figure in things like housing, books, and personal expenses, you could be looking at a total cost of attendance in the range of $50,000 per year - obviously a significant expense.

However, there are a few ways you could possibly offset this cost. One option could be applying for scholarships. SDSU offers multiple scholarships, and both the school's website and platforms like Cappex have resources to help you find opportunities.

Additionally, you might consider work-study opportunities on or around campus. While not a full solution to high tuition, work-study can help reduce some financial pressure.

And finally, it might be worth looking into the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program. If you're from a participating state and meet certain criteria, you could be eligible for reduced out-of-state tuition at SDSU. But you should definitely confirm this directly with the school.

Financial Aid is also a vital resource - filling out the FAFSA will give you an idea of your eligibility for government aid, and SDSU also offers institutional aid.

As always, consider these costs in context of your college decision. It's important to think about what you want in your college experience and whether a school like SDSU can offer that to you. Good luck with your college search!